An early review by James Curran, Professor of Communications at Goldsmiths, University of London, says the new volume will be "the first port of call for students and lecturers around the world wanting to understand British media history.

"It covers a wide spectrum, summarises existing research, and breaks new ground. It is a landmark book."

Broad scope

The Companion comprises 50 chapters, authored by international heavyweights across the field of journalism studies and media history. Its scope encompasses the earliest news periodicals published in the British Isles in the 17th century, through to online news, social media and gaming.

Two initial sections of the book cover current debates in media history and the relationship between media and society. Subsequent sections look at particular media formats within print, broadcast and digital.

Martin told the Routledge website: "It was a pleasure of the highest order to be able to co-produce such a volume with an array of enthusiastic scholars. The range of authors is drawn from both seasoned academics and younger talents, sharing a passion for historicising our understanding of the media's development within a specifically British context.

"This rich combination meant we were able to read such a wide range of chapters, oftentimes expecting one thing and being pleasantly surprised to learn something new or read something refreshing and unexpected."